Daytona Beach Alligators

Florida is home to an estimated 1.3 million alligators — and yes, they live in the Daytona Beach area too. Alligators are found in all 67 Florida counties, with especially large populations in the freshwater lakes, rivers, and marshes of Central Florida.

Below are videos of alligator encounters in and around Daytona Beach:

Where to See Alligators

In Captivity (Safe & Family-Friendly)

Gatorland (Orlando) — The “Alligator Capital of the World.” A 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve about an hour west of Daytona Beach featuring thousands of alligators and crocodiles. Highlights include the Gator Wrestlin’ Show, Gator Jumparoo, Screamin’ Gator Zip Line, and a Trainer-for-a-Day program. Adults $29.99, children $19.99.

Wildlife & Nature in Daytona Beach

The Daytona Beach area sits at the intersection of several Florida ecosystems — Atlantic coast, river estuary, freshwater springs, and interior wetlands. The result is an incredible diversity of wildlife within a short drive.

Manatees

Blue Spring State Park (Orange City, 45 min west) — The premier manatee viewing spot in Florida. From November through March, hundreds of West Indian manatees migrate into the 73°F spring water to escape the cold river. A boardwalk parallels the spring run, giving you elevated views of the manatees — often dozens at once, floating, rolling, and nursing calves. Peak viewing is December through February on cold mornings when the most manatees seek warm water.